Assistance League® Reno-Sparks began its Operation School Bell® program in 1984 with the mission to supply new school clothes to Washoe County’s most disadvantaged children. That year volunteers shopped for just 72 elementary school students. This year, our 40th, volunteers will clothe over 3000 students. To date we’ve supported more than 100,000 students.
Many Assistance League Reno-Sparks members are parents, grandparents, and retired teachers. We understand the impact that new school clothes can have on students’ confidence, attendance, and academic performance.
Operation School Bell has two main activities.
Accompanying approximately 100 elementary students per night at 30 shopping trips at local Target and Walmart stores.
Supplying clothing and hygiene items to elementary and middle school counselors to keep their emergency clothes closets stocked for immediate assistance.
The challenges have not eased over the past forty years. Many families in our community struggle to afford essentials like clothing and food. High housing costs stretch family budgets to the breaking point, affecting children’s attendance and academic success.
Operation School Bell is our largest philanthropic effort and is only made possible by community support. We depend on the continued generosity of Northern Nevada businesses and individuals—donors, shoppers, and members—to meet our goal of nearly half a million dollars this year.
Become part of something bigger than yourself. Please visit renosparks.assistanceleague.org to find out how you can help provide this vital service to the most vulnerable children in Washoe County.
Author Bio: Lorie Schaefer is a retired Carson City educator, author, grandmother, and Assistance League volunteer. She has called Northern Nevada home since 1977.
Caption suggestion (3 pics included): Students and school counselors shop with Assistance League members at local Target and Walmart stores. Just look at those smiles!
